countyscore
44.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 73.5Cost of Living 67.8

County Report Card

About Dyer County, Tennessee

Challenges in National Ranking

Dyer County scores a 44.8, placing it in the lower half of counties nationwide relative to the 50.0 median. It faces uphill battles in several social and safety metrics.

Below the Tennessee State Average

With a score of 44.8, Dyer sits well below the Tennessee average of 51.3. It struggles to compete with more affluent counties in middle and eastern parts of the state.

Affordable Housing and Good Schools

A school score of 62.9 is a highlight for the region, and a cost score of 67.8 keeps life affordable. Home values average $159,500, making ownership accessible to many.

Significant Safety and Health Issues

A safety score of 5.5 and a risk score of 13.4 are major concerns for residents. Low scores in health (22.4) and income (25.0) further complicate the local quality of life.

An Affordable Option for Educators

Dyer County is a reasonable choice for families who prioritize school quality and low housing costs over absolute safety. It offers a low barrier to entry for first-time homebuyers.

2040608010073.567.85.522.462.92513.48665.4Tax73.5Cost67.8Safety5.5Health22.4Schools62.9Income25Risk13.4Water86Weather65.444.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Dyer County DNA

Foverall

How Dyer County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Dyer County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Water Quality (86/100) but notably weak in Safety (5.5/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
73.5+21.5
Cost
67.8+19.799999999999997
Safety
5.5-49.5
Health
22.4-27.6
Schools
62.9+8.899999999999999
Income
25-26
Risk
13.4-33.6
Water
86+28
Weather
65.4+9.400000000000006
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$159,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$760/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$159,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$30,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $54,973/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

54.5

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

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Kalawao County
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Coahoma County
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Arlington County
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Nearby counties

Pemiscot County
Missouri
34.6
Lake County
Tennessee
47.1
Crockett County
Tennessee
48.9
Lauderdale County
Tennessee
45.3
Gibson County
Tennessee
44.9
Obion County
Tennessee
45.2
Mississippi County
Arkansas
38.3
Haywood County
Tennessee
41.8

Deep Dives

Dyer County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Dyer County

via TaxByCounty

Dyer County sits well below national average

Dyer County's effective tax rate of 0.606% generates median property taxes of $966, just over one-third of the national median property tax of $2,690. The county ranks in the bottom 35% nationally, offering residents far lighter property tax burden than the typical American homeowner.

Among highest rates in Tennessee

Dyer County's effective rate of 0.606% ranks third-highest among Tennessee's 95 counties, exceeded only by Crockett County (0.645%) and Davidson County (0.618%). This places Dyer substantially above the state average of 0.511%, making it a higher-tax county within Tennessee.

Highest taxes in most of northwest Tennessee

Dyer County's 0.606% rate exceeds nearby Decatur County (0.488%) and DeKalb County (0.362%) by significant margins. Only Crockett County in the region carries a comparable or higher tax burden, making Dyer one of the pricier places for property ownership locally.

What a typical Dyer County homeowner pays

On the median home value of $159,500, Dyer County homeowners pay approximately $966 annually in property taxes. Whether mortgaged ($959) or owned outright ($978), residents face consistent annual tax obligations.

Challenge your Dyer County assessment

Dyer County homeowners, particularly those in neighborhoods experiencing turnover, should verify their assessed values against recent sales. An appeal is worthwhile if your home's assessment outpaces comparable properties in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dyer County

via CostByCounty

Dyer County delivers solid rental affordability

Dyer County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio underperforms the national average, meaning renters here enjoy better affordability than typical Americans. With median rent at $760 and median household income of $54,973—below the national $74,755—Dyer sacrifices income for housing savings, creating a favorable trade-off for budget-conscious relocators.

Dyer ranks among Tennessee's most affordable

Dyer's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio beats Tennessee's 17.6% state average, securing it a position among the state's best rental values. The $760 median rent sits well below the state average of $860, making Dyer particularly attractive for renters prioritizing low monthly payments.

Dyer offers cheapest rents with modest income

Dyer's $760 rent is the lowest among its regional peers, undercutting Crockett ($854) and Cumberland ($829) while matching DeKalb ($773). Against these comparables, Dyer's $54,973 median income exceeds Decatur and DeKalb, delivering better affordability without extreme income sacrifice.

Dyer's housing costs balance well

Renters allocate $760 monthly while owners pay $747 for mortgages, both consuming under 17% of the $54,973 median household income. The median home value of $159,500 remains accessible for many households, particularly those with dual incomes or accumulated down payments.

Dyer delivers genuine rural affordability

Considering Dyer works well for renters and homebuyers seeking low housing costs without extreme income cuts versus urban alternatives. Stack Dyer's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio against pricier Dickson (15.9%, but higher income) or income-poor Decatur (18.6%) to confirm Dyer fits your financial priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dyer County

via IncomeByCounty

Dyer County trails national income standards

Dyer County's median household income of $54,973 falls $19,782 short of the national median of $74,755—a 26% gap. This shortfall reflects rural Tennessee's persistent economic divergence from national income levels.

Below Tennessee state average income

Dyer's $54,973 median household income runs 7% below Tennessee's state average of $58,994. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of Tennessee counties by income, suggesting limited high-wage employment opportunities.

Middle earnings among rural comparison counties

Dyer's $54,973 exceeds DeKalb ($48,484) and Decatur ($46,190) but lags Crockett ($59,049), Cumberland ($58,475), and significantly trails Dickson ($73,223). Dyer occupies a modest middle ground in rural Tennessee's income hierarchy.

Affordable housing supports financial stability

Dyer's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio indicates solid housing affordability, with families spending under the stress threshold. Median home values of $159,500 align reasonably with local income levels, supporting sustainable homeownership.

Building wealth in rural Tennessee

Dyer County residents benefit from affordable housing costs that create room for savings and investment. Establish automatic transfers to tax-advantaged retirement accounts and explore community-based financial education programs to build long-term wealth despite modest income levels.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dyer County

via CrimeByCounty

Higher Crime Rates in Dyer County

Dyer County has a safety score of 94.6, indicating more frequent incidents than the national norm. The total crime rate of 3,411.4 per 100,000 is higher than the national average of 2,385.5.

Falling Below State Safety Averages

The county's safety score of 94.6 is lower than the Tennessee average of 97.2. Four reporting agencies handle a higher volume of cases compared to neighboring counties.

Significant Gap From State Average

The total crime rate of 3,411.4 is nearly double the Tennessee average of 1,785.6. This data points to a more active crime environment than typical for the state.

Property Crime is a Major Concern

Property crime is high at 2,805.7 per 100,000, while the violent crime rate is 605.7. Both figures represent a higher risk level than both state and national benchmarks.

Take Active Steps for Home Security

High property crime rates mean homeowners should prioritize alarm systems and secure storage. Being proactive about locking vehicles and homes is essential in Dyer County.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Dyer County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Quality Schools Across Two Districts

Dyer County is home to 12 public schools serving 6,258 students through a dual-district system. The landscape includes seven elementary, three middle, and two high schools, providing a robust education pipeline for the community. This structure offers families choices between the county-wide system and the focused municipal district.

Top-Tier Performance and Higher Investment

Dyer County stands out with a 97.0% graduation rate and a strong school score of 56.5, both of which exceed state averages. The county invests $6,649 per pupil, which is notably higher than the Tennessee average of $6,215. This increased local investment clearly correlates with some of the best academic outcomes in the region.

Dyer County and Dyersburg Systems

The county is split between the Dyer County district (3,645 students across 8 schools) and the Dyersburg district (2,613 students across 4 schools). There are no charter schools in the county, meaning the two traditional districts receive the full support of the community. Each district provides a distinct character, from more rural county schools to town-centered municipal campuses.

A Balanced Mix of Rural and Town Schools

The county's schools are split between seven rural locations and five town settings, offering varied environments for students. Dyer County High School is the largest in the area with 1,070 students, while Newbern Elementary offers a mid-sized rural alternative with 561 students. The average school size of 522 students ensures that campuses are large enough to offer diverse programs while maintaining a manageable scale.

Find Your Place in a High-Performing County

With a graduation rate of 97%, Dyer County is a premier destination for families who prioritize public education. Whether you prefer the municipal Dyersburg system or the broader Dyer County schools, your home investment will be supported by strong academic results. These schools are a cornerstone of the local community and a major draw for new residents.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dyer County

via RiskByCounty

Dyer's Risk Significantly Above Average

Dyer County's composite risk score of 86.58 with a Relatively Moderate rating substantially exceeds national averages, placing it among the more vulnerable U.S. counties. This elevated exposure stems primarily from tornado and earthquake hazards.

Among Tennessee's Highest-Risk Counties

At 86.58, Dyer ranks 34 points above Tennessee's state average of 52.45, making it one of the state's most vulnerable counties. Only Davidson County (97.17) and Fayette (75.95) exceed Dyer's risk profile within the state.

Far Riskier Than Most Neighboring Areas

Dyer's 86.58 score significantly exceeds Crockett (52.58), Dickson (53.47), and most other West Tennessee neighbors. Only Fayette County (75.95) comes close to Dyer's elevated composite risk.

Tornado and Earthquake Threats Peak

Tornado risk reaches 88.39 and earthquake risk hits 97.61—both among the state's highest values and Dyer's defining hazards. Flood and wildfire risks remain moderate at 37.85 and 24.62 respectively.

Comprehensive Multi-Hazard Protection Required

With composite risk at 86.58, Dyer County residents need earthquake coverage (not included in standard policies) and enhanced tornado/wind protection. Review your safe room construction and ensure insurance limits match current property replacement costs.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Dyer County

via WaterByCounty

Consistent Grade A Drinking Water

Dyer County maintains a perfect drinking water record with zero health violations over five years. This Grade A performance sits well below the state average violation rate of 34.6. Local water utilities are successfully meeting all Safe Drinking Water Act requirements.

High Impairment in Assessed Waterways

The 2022 assessment shows that 61.5% of Dyer County's 52 assessed water bodies are impaired. This is double the Tennessee average impairment rate of 30.2%. Major contributors include sedimentation and physical substrate habitat alterations in local streams.

Extensive Testing of Metals and Inorganics

Experts monitor 24 sites across the county, generating 4,078 measurements in the last five years. The data shows a strong focus on inorganic chemicals, metals, and nutrients. This rigorous testing helps track the movement of contaminants through the county's heavily impaired watersheds.

Real-Time Discharge Data Unavailable

There are no representative USGS streamgages currently reporting live data in Dyer County. Local water managers rely on periodic monitoring samples to understand water quality trends. Residents should look to the high watershed impairment percentage for the most current environmental signal.

Addressing Sedimentation and Runoff Issues

With over 60% of waterways impaired, reducing siltation is a top priority for local water health. Agricultural best practices and construction site runoff controls are essential to protecting stream habitats. These efforts help ensure that the county's high-quality drinking water sources remain protected.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Dyer County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Heat and High Humidity

Dyer County's 60.1°F annual average is well above the national median, indicating a consistently warm climate. The region experiences heavy precipitation, totaling 53.3 inches annually.

Warmer Than the State Norm

At 60.1°F, Dyer is exactly 2 degrees warmer than the Tennessee state average of 58.1°F. This warmth is driven by high summer peaks, with July averages reaching 80.4°F.

West Tennessee Thermal Peaks

Dyer is warmer than neighboring Crockett County, averaging 53 extreme heat days compared to Crockett's 43. Both counties share similar rainfall patterns, staying within a few inches of each other.

Sweltering Summers and Mild Winters

Residents face 53 days of temperatures at or above 90°F during the long summer. While snowfall data is limited, winter remains mild with a January average of 38.3°F.

Heat Safety and Hydration

With 53 extreme heat days, residents should prioritize hydration and cooling during the 80.4°F July peaks. Be prepared for sudden heavy downpours that contribute to the 53.3 inches of annual rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Dyer County

via SoilByCounty

Dyer’s productive and youthful Entisols

Dyer County is characterized by Entisols, which are geologically young and productive soils. Its pH of 5.78 is significantly higher and less acidic than the Tennessee average of 5.35.

Silt-dominated profile for nutrient retention

The soil contains 65.0% silt and 20.7% clay, though the specific texture name is missing from local records. This mix is dense in nutrients and holds water tightly for growing plants.

Outstanding water capacity for agriculture

Dyer features a very high available water capacity of 0.196 in/in, well above the state average of 0.171. While organic matter is 1.70%, the high water retention supports intensive crop production.

Optimal drainage for high yields

The soil is well drained and categorized in hydrologic group B. This combination allows for rapid water infiltration, making it excellent for large-scale farming and reducing the risk of flood damage.

A agricultural powerhouse in zone 7b

These soils are famous for supporting high-yield corn and soybean crops. Home gardeners can easily grow heavy feeders like pumpkins and squash in this moisture-rich environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dyer County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Northwest Tennessee's Growing Hurdles

Dyer County presents a difficulty score of 43.0, reflecting a environment where heat and pests can easily stress turf. Located in zone 7b, the climate demands active management to keep lawns lush.

Adapting to 53 Days of Extreme Heat

High thermal stress is a major factor here, with 53 days exceeding 90°F annually. This heat, combined with 4948 growing degree days, means grass grows rapidly and requires frequent mowing and watering.

Utilizing Well-Drained Soil Foundations

Dyer's soil is notably well-drained with a pH of 5.78, which is closer to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range than many peers. While specific texture data is limited, the drainage class suggests a healthy environment for root development.

Watering Through Severe Dry Spells

With 21 weeks of drought last year and 11.4% of the county in severe drought now, water conservation is vital. Focus on watering in the early morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Seeding Strategies for Dyer County

Bermuda and Zoysia are the top picks to handle the 53 days of extreme heat. The growing season typically starts after the March 28 frost and continues until the first freeze around November 2.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dyer County's county score?
Dyer County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 44.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Dyer County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Dyer County ranks #78 among all counties in Tennessee on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Dyer County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Dyer County is $966, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Dyer County a tax score of 73.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dyer County?
The median household income in Dyer County, Tennessee is $54,973 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dyer County earns an income score of 25/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dyer County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Dyer County scores 44.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #78 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Dyer County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Dyer County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.